Golf Podcast: next on the tee

Season 11, Episode 46 Part 1: Scottie, Keegan, and the Unthinkable...

In Part 1 of Episode 46, I’m joined by world-renowned instructor Tom Patri and the toughest man I’ve ever met, Tim Simpson.
This week, TP and I dive into the Tour Championship, with a focus on Keegan Bradley’s remarkable journey. Keegan barely made it into last week’s BMW Championship at Castle Rock, entering the tournament ranked 50th—just inside the Top 50 in the FedEx Cup standings. Not only did he secure his spot, but he also went on to win, catapulting himself to 4th place with a real shot at winning the entire championship. We’ll explore the possibility of Keegan playing in the Presidents Cup and even serving as a player-captain in next year’s Ryder Cup. Plus, we’ll discuss the LPGA’s Player of the Year race.
Tim Simpson is a legendary ball striker and perhaps the strongest person I’ve ever known. He’s faced multiple back surgeries, Lyme disease, neurological issues caused by Lyme disease, brain surgery, and, most recently, one of the rarest forms of cancer in the world. Despite it all, Tim never complained and overcame every challenge. In this episode, you’ll hear his incredible story, including the time he played in a Pro-Am with Michael J. Fox, and his thoughts on what’s next for Keegan Bradley.

Season 11, Episode 45: Calling All Wingnuts, The West Wing's Melissa Fitzgerald & Mary McCormack talk "What's Next"...

In this special bonus segment, I’m thrilled to be joined by two incredible actors, ladies, and stars of The West Wing, Melissa Fitzgerald and Mary McCormack.
As a HUGE fan of The West Wing, we affectionately referred to as Wingnuts, I’m excited to take the show off the course with these wonderful ladies. Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of hosting Melissa Fitzgerald, who portrayed Carole Fitzpatrick. During that episode, she gave us a teaser about a behind-the-scenes book she was co-writing with fellow cast member Mary McCormack, who played Deputy National Security Advisor Kate Harper. That book, titled What's Next: A Backstage Pass to The West Wing, has since been released and has become a New York Times Bestseller.
In our conversation, you’ll hear the fascinating story of how the book was conceived over cake and drinks at Alison Janney’s house. We also discuss the show’s enduring legacy 25 years later, its call to service, the powerful impact of the “In Excelsis Deo” episode, and the key episodes they chose to highlight. Melissa and Mary also share what it was like to work with Aaron Sorkin, the culture Martin Sheen established from day one, the loss of John Spencer, and the epic prank wars between Bradley Whitford and Josh Malina. Bradley even reflects on how, no matter what else they achieve in their careers, The West Wing will always be the first line in their obituaries.
I highly recommend picking up this beautifully written book—it’s a fantastic read and is available wherever books are sold.

Season 11, Episode 44: America's Caddie Michael Collins Joins Me...

In Episode 44 I'm extremely blessed to get a return visit from America's Caddie Michael Collins.
Michael is one of those remarkable individuals you’re lucky to encounter, not just in the golf community, but in life in general. His talents are truly limitless. He began as an outstanding comedian and evolved into a top-notch caddie, broadcaster, and now, you can add photographer to his impressive resume.
In this episode, you'll hear Michael’s insights on who should be named PGA Tour Player of the Year, his memorable experience playing Augusta National, some of his favorite photographs—including the one he wants to be buried with—and his thoughts on the powerful Mike Tomlin video about the difference between players who are capable and those who are willing.

Season 11, Episode 43: The Keep: Redefining Golf Course Excellence...

In this special episode of Next on the Tee, I’m joined by Duane Horton, Charlie Rymer, Bill Bergin, and Rees Jones to discuss the creation of The Keep, the stunning new course co-designed by Bill and Rees.
The Keep is the latest addition to the McLemore property, complementing the existing Highlands course. This project holds special significance for Duane Horton, who has a deep connection to the area, having grown up at the base of McLemore Cove. Duane’s vision brought this land to life, and with the expertise of Bill Bergin and Rees Jones, they’ve crafted two of the finest courses in the country.
Charlie Rymer, known for his time on the PGA Tour and as a host on The Golf Channel, has also played a key role in this endeavor. Charlie is also from the area and helped bring this masterpiece to life. As the Executive Vice President and Ambassador for the resort, Charlie has applied his playing experience and keen understanding of what golfers seek in a destination resort. Together, these four men have created a resort that is sure to become a top destination on golfers’ bucket lists worldwide.
The Keep is their latest masterpiece—a breathtaking course featuring cliff edge holes with panoramic vistas from every point on the property. Designed as a links-style course with multiple tee setups, The Keep offers a unique experience each time you play.
In this episode, you’ll hear from all four of these visionaries as they share their insights, stories, and enthusiasm for the project. They’ll discuss how The Keep came together, the challenges they faced, the course’s routing, and what makes this course truly stand out from any other you’ve ever played.

Season 11 Episode 42 Part 2: Former Pro Bowl QBs Gus Frerotte & Chris Miller Join Me...

In Part 2 of Episode 42, I'm joined by two former Pro Bowl quarterbacks, Gus Frerotte and Chris Miller.
Gus Frerotte, who hails from Ford City, just outside of Pittsburgh, kicks off the conversation by sharing his thoughts on the Steelers' quarterback situation, particularly the dynamic of having both Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Gus draws on his own experience from when he was drafted by the Commanders as a 7th round pick, the same year they selected Heath Shuler with the #3 overall pick. He offers his perspective on whether Pittsburgh's situation can succeed. We also discuss the skyrocketing salaries of quarterbacks and wide receivers, the evolution of the game since his playing days, his memorable conversation with Matthew McConaughey, and some of his favorite Pro-Am tournaments.
Chris Miller, an Oregon Duck Hall of Famer, was a 1st round draft pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 1987. After retiring from the NFL, he went on to serve as the Offensive Coordinator for the Houston Roughnecks in the XFL. We begin by discussing the new UFL and its potential to develop players overlooked by NFL teams. Chris shares his thoughts on the Falcons drafting Michael Penix in the 1st round after signing Kirk Cousins to a massive free-agent contract. He also provides insights on his Oregon Ducks, who are entering the college football season ranked #3. Finally, we hear about his memorable round of golf with his father at Augusta National and his participation in the annual Mike Bellotti MDA Golf Tournament.

Season 11 Episode 42 Part 1: Tom Patri Talks Wyndham Championship & Jane Crafter Talks Fox Chapel & US Senior Women's Open...

In Part 1 of Episode 42, I'm joined by our Resident Director of Instruction Tom Patri and one of the all-time great ladies in our game, Jane Crafter.
This week, Tom and I kick things off by discussing the puzzling decision of Matt Kuchar to be the only player to finish the Wyndham Championship on Monday morning, despite being seven strokes off the lead. Tom also shares his thoughts on Aaron Rai’s first win, Billy Horschel’s classy gesture, and what’s been going wrong with his own short game lately.
Jane Crafter, hailing from Perth, Australia, had an exceptional amateur career, winning the 1978 New Zealand and 1980 Belgian Amateur Championships and finishing as runner-up in the 1977 Australian and 1980 Canadian Amateur Championships. We delve into those achievements, as well as her reflections on this year’s U.S. Senior Open Championship and her own Top 5 finish in that event in 2019. Jane also revisits her victory at the 1997 Austrian Open, and she shares some drills and tips that made her one of the best putters in the game.

Season 11 Episode 41 Part 2: LPGA Legend Jane Blalock & US Am Tour & Multi-Time Winner Chris Alderucci Join Me...

In Part 2 of Episode 41, I’m joined by LPGA Tour legend Jane Blalock and multi-time US Am Tour winner and Callaway fitter, Chris Alderucci.
Jane Blalock joins the conversation following this year’s US Women’s Senior Open at Fox Chapel in Pittsburgh. She shares her thoughts on Leta Lindley’s victory after two consecutive years as runner-up. We also discuss the upcoming BJ’s Charity Championship, where Jane and Patricia Meunier-Lebouc will defend their title, and we reflect on her landmark win at the 1972 Dinah Shore Winner’s Circle tournament, which helped shift the public’s perception of the LPGA Tour.
Chris Alderucci, who has claimed 15 victories on the US Am Tour since 2020, talks about his experiences on a tour that has become a valuable platform for amateur events across the country. He shares insights from playing on some of the top courses that have hosted these tournaments, many of which are on every golfer’s bucket list. Additionally, Chris emphasizes the importance of getting custom-fitted for clubs rather than purchasing them off the rack, highlighting how it can make a significant difference in your game.

Season 11 Episode 41 Part 1: 2015 IHRA Pro Modified World Champion Dina Parise and The Confidence Doctor Dr. Bob Winters Join Me...

In Part 1 of Episode 41, I’m joined by Dina Parise, the 2015 IHRA Pro Modified World Champion, and The Confidence Doctor, Dr. Bob Winters.
Dina Parise, who grew up on Long Island, was a competitive gymnast in the summer and a passionate ice skater in the winter, idolizing Dorothy Hamill. She turned her love for ice skating into a four-year career performing with the Ice Capades, where she even had the chance to meet her idol. In our conversation, Dina shares stories from that time, including the first time she signed an autograph, meeting her husband Andrew, a champion driver in his own right, and how she got hooked on drag racing. She also reflects on the thrill of winning her first driver’s championship and reveals why, in a movie about her life, she’d want Marisa Tomei to play her.
In this month’s discussion with Dr. Bob Winters, we delve into his pioneering work in junior golf, focusing not just on the swing but on the mental game. Dr. Winters emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive attitude, focus, and the right mental approach. Recognizing this need decades ago, he developed a program to help young players build the mindset necessary for success. We also explore the concept of “the drive to finish,” addressing why some top players have struggled to close out tournaments recently—a challenge we’ve all faced. Doc offers insights and strategies to help us overcome that hurdle.

Season 11 Episode 40 Part 2: Wisconsin Golf HOFer Gary D'Amato & Tour Legend Guy Boros Join Me...

In Part 2 of Episode 40, I’m joined by Wisconsin Golf Hall of Famer and Golf Writers Association of America member, Gary D’Amato, along with multiple-time Tour winner Guy Boros, son of World Golf Hall of Famer Julius Boros.
Gary, a member of the Golf Writers Association of America for over 40 years, has covered every Masters since 1993 and was inducted into the Wisconsin Golf Hall of Fame in 2017. While Whistling Straits and Erin Hills are well-known, Gary highlights several other hidden gem courses in Wisconsin, a state that often flies under the radar as a golf destination. He also shares stories of playing alongside some of Wisconsin’s greatest golfers, including Steve Stricker, Andy North, Jerry Kelly, and Sherri Steinhauer. Additionally, Gary recounts one of his favorite Masters moments—following Jack Nicklaus as he nearly captured his seventh Green Jacket in 1998—and discusses the book he co-wrote with Packers legend Chester Marcol on the history of the Packers-Bears rivalry.
Guy Boros grew up traveling on Tour with his father, Julius, a three-time major champion who won the 1952 and 1963 U.S. Opens and the 1968 PGA Championship. Julius held the record as the oldest major champion, winning the 1968 PGA at 48 years old, until Phil Mickelson surpassed him a few years ago at nearly 51. Guy also found significant success on Tour, particularly in Canada, where he won the Canadian Order of Merit in 1991. His first PGA Tour victory came at the 1996 Greater Vancouver Classic, which he won by a stroke over Lee Janzen. In our conversation, Guy reflects on how his game seemed to elevate whenever he crossed the border, the experience of growing up around the great players of the 60s and 70s while traveling with his father, and his victory at the Vancouver Classic. He also shares insights from playing in this year's U.S. Senior Open at Newport Country Club and the Senior Open Championship at Carnoustie.

Season 11 Episode 40 Part 1: Tom Patri & John Cook Talk Player of the Year, Olympic Golf, & Money Talking Over the Game...

Tom and I dive into the Player of the Year debate—Scottie or Xander? We discuss whether two majors outweigh one major, The Players Championship, and six wins. We also touch on Keegan Bradley's appointment as Ryder Cup Captain, the significance of Olympic golf, and Tom's recent trip to Sea Island.
John Cook, who has had a remarkable career both as an amateur—winning the 1978 US Amateur and finishing runner-up to Mark O'Meara in '79—and as a professional player and broadcaster, joins the conversation. He shares his thoughts on the topics from the first segment, especially the focus on money versus the traditional values of the Tour. John also gives his opinion on who should be named Player of the Year. We revisit his incredible victory at the 1996 FedEx St. Jude Classic, where he set a 54-hole record on the Tour, and his memories of the 1994 US Open at Oakmont. Additionally, we talk about John's Western Pennsylvania roots through his mother, witnessing Arnold Palmer's final US Open round, and the Cook family's anniversary tradition at Dom & Dom.